In this episode of After Hours with Saratoga Living’s Editor Natalie Moore, we dive into the best of Saratoga’s food, culture, and hidden gems. Natalie shares stories from her latest articles, including the rise of golf carts in Saratoga, the buzz around late-night dining, and where to find the city’s most popular restaurants and happy hours. From local favorites like Herbie’s Burgers, Karavalli, Druthers, BurgerFi, and Sarah’s Kitchen to the upcoming scoop on Saratoga’s best ice cream spots, this episode is a foodie’s guide to exploring the city.

We also discuss Saratoga’s vibrant arts scene, including the unforgettable performance where the Philadelphia Orchestra played with Laufey at SPAC, and share insider tips—like why locals line up at 5 a.m. for a coveted picnic table at the track. With so many dining options, seasonal events, and cultural experiences, Saratoga offers something new for every visitor.

Whether you’re planning a trip to the track, looking for the best restaurants in Saratoga, or curious about the city’s nightlife and arts, this episode will inspire you to experience Saratoga like a local.

Sponsored By Julie & Co. Realty

Discover Saratoga: https://www.discoversaratoga.org/ 

Saratoga Living: https://saratogaliving.com/ 

Bright Sighted Media: https://brightsighted.com/ 

West Ave Pizza: https://www.westavepizza.com/ 

Miss Scarlets: https://www.missscarlettboutique.com/ 

Clancy’s: https://www.discoversaratoga.org/listing/clancys-tavern/8170/  

Sarah’s Kitchen: https://www.saraskitchen518.com/  

Mike’s Noods: https://saratogaliving.substack.com/p/these-things-just-keep-popping-up  

Standard Fare: https://www.standardfaresaratoga.com/  

Osteria Danny: https://www.osteriadanny.com/ 

Noah’s Italian: https://noahsitalian.com/  

Herbies Burgers: https://www.herbiesburgers.com/  

Pint Sized: https://diveupstate.com/ 

Mittler’s: https://www.facebook.com/people/Mittlers/61561438942855/  

Ice House: https://www.discoversaratoga.org/listing/ice-house-bar-%26-grill/4597/  

Eddie F’s: https://www.eateddiefs.com/ 

Harvest Grain Pizza: https://www.harvestgrainpizzeria.com/  

Cookies and Cream Ice Cream: https://www.finishingtouchesstore.com/  

 Humpty Dumpty Ice Cream: https://humptydumptyicecream.weebly.com/  

Dairy Haus: https://dairyhaus.com/ 

Farmer’s Daughter: https://www.farmersdaughtersdrivein.com/  

King Dairy: https://kingbrothersdairy.com/our-farm-store 

Ugly Ice Cream: https://www.uglyicecream.com/  

SPAC: https://spac.org/  

Skidmore College: https://www.skidmore.edu/  

Old Tavern Farm Winery: https://oldtavernfarms.com/  

Bars Beyond Boundaries https://www.barswithoutboundaries.com/ 

Familiar Creature : https://www.familiar-creature.com/ 

Druthers : https://www.druthersbrewing.com/ 

Boca Bistro : https://bocabistro.com/ 

Karavalis : https://www.karavallisaratoga.com/ 

Little India: https://www.littleindiasaratoga.com/ 

Comfort Kitchen : https://www.comforteats.com/ 

 BurgerFi : https://www.burgerfi.com/ 

Harvy’s: https://harveyspub.com/ 

Quarters : https://quarterssaratoga.com/ 

Saratoga Race Course : https://www.saratogaracetrack.com/ 

Trotters : https://www.facebook.com/p/Trotters-100063593109136/ 

Embassy Suites Saratoga : https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/albeses-embassy-suites-saratoga-springs/ 

Purdy’s: https://www.purdyswine.com/ 

Diamond Club Restaurant: https://www.diamondclubrestaurantsaratoga.com/

Chapters:

00:00 Exploring Culinary Delights in Saratoga

05:28 The Rise of Golf Carts in Saratoga

11:11 Late Night Dining Trends

16:44 Saratoga's Vibrant Arts and Culture Scene

22:24 Upcoming Events and Seasonal Changes

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In this episode, we’re joined at Saratoga Race Course by Ralph Bianculli, the President & CEO of Emerald Ecovations. Ralph dives into the company’s mission—since 1997, Emerald has been championing tree-free, plastic-free, and toxin-free disposables made in the USA using rapidly renewable fibers like bamboo, bagasse, miscanthus, starches, and more.

He also stresses the importance of educating consumers about how products are made, what chemicals they contain, and why choosing better alternatives can make a big environmental impact. Through initiatives like the Emerald Sustainability Academy, the company works to raise awareness and empower people to make greener choices every day.

Kevin and Ralph reveal their exciting new partnership: Emerald Ecovations is now NYRA’s preferred sustainable products provider, beginning this season at Saratoga. Together, they’re reducing the environmental footprint of the race track by introducing eco-friendly cups, utensils, napkins, and more, while also engaging the public with educational activations across the grounds.

https://www.discoversaratoga.org/

https://saratogaliving.com/

https://brightsighted.com/

https://emeraldecovations.com/

https://www.nyrainc.com/

Chapters:

00:00 The Future of Sustainability for Generations to Come

02:06 Emerald Ecovations: A Journey Towards Sustainable Practices

04:23 Recycling Realities: The Truth Behind Waste Management

06:51 Education as a Key to Sustainable Living

08:40 Innovative Products: Tree-Free Solutions and Their Impact

11:16 The Role of Corporations in Environmental Change

12:36 Engaging Farmers: A Sustainable Supply Chain

14:46 Partnerships for Progress: NYRA and Sustainable Practices

18:41 Consumer Awareness: The Importance of Informed Choices

20:30 Cost vs. Sustainability: Changing Perceptions

22:32 Environmental Impact Reporting: Metrics for Change

24:52 Contributing to Statewide Sustainability Efforts

27:51 The Shift in Consumer Demographics and Sustainability

29:39 Emerald's Product Showcase at the Track

30:53 Greenwashing: Identifying True Eco-Friendly Products

32:07 Legacy and Future: Building a Sustainable Tomorrow

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Discover Saratoga Spa State Park, a top destination in Saratoga Springs known for its historic mineral springs, world-class outdoor recreation, and rich cultural attractions. We explore the soothing Roosevelt Baths, the shimmering elegance of the Victoria Pool, and the family-friendly fun of the Peerless Pool. Learn why preserving this historic and natural landmark is essential—and why it should be on every visitor’s Saratoga itinerary.

Sponsored by Julie & Co. Realty

Featured Members:

Discover Saratoga 

https://www.discoversaratoga.org/ 

Saratoga Living 

https://saratogaliving.com/ 

Bright Sighted Media 

https://brightsighted.com/ 

Spa State Park 

https://parks.ny.gov/parks/saratogaspa 

Roosevelt Baths and Spa

https://www.gideonputnam.com/roosevelt-baths-and-spa 

Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC)

spac.org 

Saratoga Spa Golf Course

https://parks.ny.gov/golf/15/details.aspx 

Saratoga Springs Automobile Museum 

https://www.saratogaautomuseum.org/ 

Saratoga Springs Children’s Museum 

https://cmssny.org/ 

Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation 

https://www.saratogapreservation.org/ 

Spa Little Theater by SPAC

​​https://spac.org/saratoga-performing-arts-center/your-visit/the-spac-experience/our-venues/spa-little-theater/ 

Heritage Area Visitors Center 

https://www.discoversaratoga.org/saratoga-springs-visitor-center/ 

Live Nation 

https://www.livenation.com/ 

The Gideon Putnam Hotel 

https://www.gideonputnam.com/ 

Chapters:

00:00 Exploring Saratoga Spa State Park

01:44 Unique Features of the Park

03:46 The Healing Power of Mineral Springs

05:52 Outdoor Recreation and Accessibility

07:08 Historical Significance of Roosevelt Baths

09:21 Cultural Events and Festivals

11:28 Understanding Mineral Springs

13:47 The Avenue of the Pines Experience

15:50 The Role of SPAC in the Park

17:55 The Hall of Springs: A Historical Venue

19:40 Attractions Beyond Recreation

21:50 Golf and Other Activities

24:04 The Victoria Pool Experience

25:06 The Geyser and Its Unique Features

27:28 The Importance of Preservation

29:29 Programming and Community Engagement

32:10 Seasonal Events and Activities

34:05 The Parks Explorer App

35:56 Art and History in the Park

37:26 Lightning Round: Quick Insights

41:04 Final Thoughts on Saratoga Spa State Park

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In this delicious episode, host Mackenzie sits down with local culinary power duo Clark Gale and Zac Denham, the minds behind Bocage Champagne Bar, to talk about their newest venture: Standard Fare, opening August 15th in the heart of downtown Saratoga Springs.

From elevated comfort food (hello, meatloaf and apple chutney pork chops!) to a playful art gallery wall featuring horses, ducks—and a single goose—you’ll get the inside scoop on what makes Standard Fare a can’t-miss dinner destination for visitors and locals alike. Clark and Zac talk about their creative process, their passion for bringing people together through food, and what’s coming next (spoiler: brunch is on the way!).

Whether you're in town for the Saratoga Race Course, spending the weekend on Broadway, or just here for the champagne and crepes, Standard Fare is your new go-to for unique dishes, warm vibes, and unexpected art.

Sponsored By Julie & Co. Realty : https://www.juliecorealty.com

FEATURED MEMBERS:

Discover Saratoga 

https://www.discoversaratoga.org/ 

Saratoga Living 

https://saratogaliving.com/ 

Bright Sighted Media 

https://brightsighted.com/ 

Standard Fare

https://www.standardfaresaratoga.com/ 

Bocage Champagne Bar

https://www.bocagechampagnebar.com/ 

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast & Guests

01:05 From Bocage to Standard Fare

03:45 Collaborating with Local Artist Daniel

07:10 The Story Behind the Gallery Wall

10:30 Saratoga Horse Culture Meets Quirky Art

12:55 Finding the Goose: Interactive Art Details

15:40 Opening Timeline & Final Prep

17:55 Favorite Dishes on the Menu

21:00 Dessert, Salads & Blue Plate Specials

24:15 What’s Next: Lunch, Brunch & Crepes

26:50 Balancing Marriage & Business

29:30 Quick-Fire Fast Facts

32:00 Final Thoughts & How to Make Reservations

Thank you to Julie & Co. for sponsoring this episode.

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From Shania Twain lighting up the SPAC stage to Fire Fest’s farm-fresh bites, historic celebrations honoring the Battle of Saratoga, and unique carnival attractions like Twiggy the Water-Skiing Squirrel — we cover the must-see happenings this summer. Get the scoop on the Saratoga County Fair’s demolition derby, the Kindness Carnival, Sip Savor & Swirl at Saratoga Winery with Nacre Dance Company, and the SPAC summer concert series. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or festival fanatic, this episode has all the local events and insider tips you need to make the most of your Saratoga summer. Tune in and start planning your next adventure!

Sponsored By Julie & Co. Realty : https://youtu.be/F_wcfZHxtVk

FEATURED MEMBERS:

Discover Saratoga: https://www.discoversaratoga.org/ 

Saratoga Living: https://saratogaliving.com/ 

Bright Sighted Media: https://brightsighted.com/ 

Sashi’s Dispensary: https://www.sashiesdispensary.com/ 

Turning Point Parade and Festival: https://turningpointparade.com/  

Saratoga Springs History Museum: https://www.saratogahistory.org/  

Saratoga 250: https://saratoga250.com/ 

Saratoga Springs Visitors Center: https://www.discoversaratoga.org/saratoga-springs-visitor-center/ 

Saratoga Springs Battlefield: https://www.nps.gov/sara/index.htm 

Kindness Carnival at Saratoga Winery: https://www.thesaratogawinery.com/events  

Saratoga County Children's Committee: https://www.saratogachildrenscommittee.org/ 

Saratoga Summer Concert Series: https://www.discoversaratoga.org/events/summer-concert-series/ 

Fire Feast: https://www.pitneymeadowscommunityfarm.org/fire-feast 

Pitney Meadows Farm: https://www.pitneymeadowscommunityfarm.org/ 

Echo Farm & Farmstead Catering: https://www.farmsteadcatering.com/echo-farm 

SPAC: https://spac.org/ 

Ben and Jerry's: https://www.benjerry.com/saratoga   

Live Nation Premium Experience: https://premium.livenation.com/experiences  

Nacre Dance - Sip Savor Swirl: https://www.nacredance.org/sipsavorswirl  

Universal Preservation Hall (UPH): https://atuph.org/ 

Saratoga County Fair: https://www.saratogacountyfair.org/ 

Demolition Derby: https://www.saratogacountyfair.org/fair-calendar/demolition-derby/ 

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Destination Saratoga Podcast

01:04 Upcoming Events in Saratoga County

05:08 Cultural Highlights and Community Engagement

08:40 Concerts and Performances at SPAC

11:09 Celebrity News and Philanthropy

12:02 Summer Food and Local Fairs

13:37 Reflections on Recent Losses in Entertainment

18:00 Sports and Local Teams Update

Thank you to Julie & Co. for sponsoring this episode.

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Thinking about making Saratoga Springs your next home — or planning a summer getaway to see what all the buzz is about? ⬇️

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thinking about making Saratoga Springs your next home — or planning a summer getaway to see what all the buzz is about? ⬇️

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Saratoga’s racing season kicks off with the thrilling and long-awaited Opening Day. From exciting new gluten-free and vegan bites at the track to kid-friendly activities and behind-the-scenes tours, this episode is packed with everything you need to know. They talk about jockeys to watch this season, like Katie and Dylan Davis, and how Mackenzie bumped into Dave Portnoy (yes, Stool President himself)—sparking a full-on campaign to get him on the podcast… Natalie’s new article also gets a major spotlight, covering all the can’t-miss events of the season. From ghost tours and museum visits to the excitement of horse ownership, Saratoga is packed with experiences this year.

Sponsored By Julie & Co Realty 

https://saratogaliving.substack.com/p/seasons-greetings-9c2

FEATURED MEMBERS:

Discover Saratoga 

https://www.discoversaratoga.org/ 

Saratoga Living 

https://saratogaliving.com/ 

Bright Sighted Media 

https://brightsighted.com/ 

Saratoga Race Course 

https://www.saratogaracetrack.com/ 

NYRA

https://www.nyrainc.com/

Purdy’s 

https://www.purdyswine.com/

Side Cap

https://www.sidecapbrew.com/about 

Kru Coffee 

https://www.krucoffee.com/ 

Ninth Planet

https://www.ninthplanetbev.com/ 

By the Bottle

https://bythebottleshop.com/ 

The Coat Room 

https://thecoatroom.com/ 

Therapeutic Horses

https://thsaratoga.org/ 

National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame 

https://www.racingmuseum.org/ 

The Morning Show (during breakfast) Laura Breakfast at Saratoga 

https://cms.nyra.com/saratoga/visit/breakfast-at-saratoga 

 Breakfast and Breeding Tour 

https://oldtavernfarms.com/pages/breeding-breakfast-farm-tours

Song Hill Thoroughbred Tavern Farm 

https://www.jamesbondracing.com/ 

Sugar Plum Farm 

https://www.sugarplumfarmsaratoga.com/ 

Winner’s Circle Experience

https://cms.nyra.com/saratoga/visit/experiences 

BEST (Backstretch Employee Service Team)

https://www.bestbackstretch.org/

Third Race Call  Experience 

https://www.nyra.com/saratoga/ 

NYRA STAR Program (Students of Thoroughbreds and Racing)

https://www.nyra.com/saratoga/visit/nyra-star/ 

Kos Sauna 

https://www.kossauna.com/ 

Lago by Druthers 

https://www.druthersbrewing.com/  

Standard Fair

https://www.standardfaresaratoga.com/ 

Libby’s

https://libbysupperclub.com/ 

History Museum Ghost Tours

https://www.saratogahistory.org/ghost-tours-summer-2025 

Heritage Area Visitors Center

https://www.discoversaratoga.org/saratoga-springs-visitor-center/ 

Sara’s Kitchen 

https://www.saraskitchen518.com/ 

Putnam Market

https://putnammarket.com/ 

Cardona's

https://www.cardonasmarket.com/ 

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Rental Fashion: Affordable Style Choices

00:44 Celebrity Encounters: Awkward Moments and Gossip

02:26 Saratoga Racing: Excitement and New Experiences

06:45 Culinary Delights: Food and Beverage Innovations at the Track

10:34 Local Business Spotlight: New Ventures and Collaborations

12:39 Horse Racing Culture: Community and Events

16:55 Unique Experiences: Naming Races and Special Tours

20:38 Celebrating Local Talent: Jockeys and Their Impact

24:26 Philanthropy and Community: Celebrity Contributions

26:57 Upcoming Attractions: New Restaurants and Events

30:52 Personal Connections: Becoming a Horse Owner

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We visit the historic Saratoga Springs History Museum, housed in the legendary Canfield Casino, and sit down with Program Director Charlie Kuenzel for a fascinating conversation. From the glitz and glam of Saratoga’s Gilded Age—where elite vacationers came to gamble, socialize, and indulge in high-stakes horse racing—to the darker, haunted corners of the building featured on Ghost Hunters, this episode uncovers both the luxurious and mysterious layers of Saratoga’s past. Hear stories of million-dollar bets, lavish lifestyles, and the spirits that still linger in the halls of one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Sponsor By Julie & Co Realty 

https://www.saratogahistory.org/events/0u3a3xly64c5uvao59rjxd6tolgy8a

FEATURED MEMBERS:

Discover Saratoga 

https://www.discoversaratoga.org/ 

Saratoga Living 

https://saratogaliving.com/ 

Bright Sighted Media 

https://brightsighted.com/ 

The Saratoga Springs History Museum 

https://www.saratogahistory.org/ 

The Canfield Casino 

https://www.saratoga-springs.org/363/Canfield-Casino 

SPAC

https://spac.org/ 

The Adelphi 

https://theadelphihotel.com/ 

Heritage Area Visitors Center 

https://www.discoversaratoga.org/saratoga-springs-visitor-center/ 

Saratoga Race Course 

https://www.nyra.com/saratoga/

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Exploring Saratoga's Rich History

03:52 The Gilded Age: A Tale of Two Cities

11:06 The Role of Iconic Hotels in Saratoga's Legacy

15:51 Women's Suffrage and Saratoga's Influence

19:35 The Museum's Role in Preserving Saratoga's Identity

24:06 Ghost Stories and Haunted History

39:56 Reflections on Historical Figures and Events

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This week, we’re diving into everything buzzing around Saratoga—from the glitz of a local film set (Jessie has stories!) to the growing excitement around the Fourth of July Racing Festival and the jam-packed calendar of summer events. We’re talking big names and big moves—like the NYC Ballet’s return to SPAC, Shania Twain’s generous surprise for a local food bank, and the pop culture chatter lighting up town (Jonas Brothers, anyone?).

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices